Cheltenham Ladies College
Cheltenham Ladies College
Cheltenham, England
Cheltenham Ladies’ College (CLC), located in the charming town of Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, is one of the top girls’ boarding schools in England. With pupils from over 40 nations, the school fosters a vibrant, multicultural community that encourages exchange and broadens horizons. The college impresses with outstanding results in GCSEs, A Levels and the IB. Its excellent academic reputation is based not only on strong exam performances but also on the lived diversity and close integration of all pupils, regardless of their background. Cheltenham Ladies’ College stands for excellent education in an international environment.
The Details
The Academics
With a broad academic offering that includes GCSEs, A Levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cheltenham Ladies’ College provides diverse pathways to success. The college is particularly proud of its IB results: since introducing the programme in 2008, CLC has been among the top schools in the UK. In 2024, the IB cohort achieved an impressive average score of 39.1 points – third place nationally. The college also consistently delivers strong performances in GCSEs and A Levels: in 2024, pupils achieved 86 percent grades 9 to 7 at GCSE and 70 percent A grades at A Level. The school offers a wide range of languages and sciences, supported by modern laboratories and learning resources.
Languages Taught
German, French, Ancient Greek, Italian, Latin, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish and Japanese.
The Boarding
The boarding houses are not only cosy but also well equipped: shared bathrooms, study rooms and inviting common and social areas create space for collaborative work and relaxed time with friends.
More than two thirds of the pupils board and are part of a warm and open community. The five houses — Beale, Cambray, Elizabeth, Roderic and St Hilda’s — provide a home where friendships are quickly formed. In the final two years, girls move into one of three Sixth Form houses (Beale, Cambray or St Hilda’s) to prepare optimally for university life. Most pupils enjoy the privacy of a single room, though those who wish can share a double room.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
The Parabola Arts Centre and the excellent sports facilities offer pupils ideal opportunities to express themselves both creatively and athletically. Whether on stage, in the studio or on the playing field – talents are given space to grow.
The international atmosphere of the College and numerous educational trips not only encourage cultural exchange but also strengthen pupils’ global understanding.
As a girls’ school, Cheltenham Ladies’ College gives girls the chance to take on all academic and sporting roles with confidence – including those traditionally dominated by boys. It is an environment that fosters self-belief and leadership skills.
Weaknesses
The high academic standards can be overwhelming for pupils despite the many support systems in place. The compulsory exeat weekends can be an organisational challenge for some pupils and their families.
Location
Cheltenham College is part of the very attractive and vibrant town of Cheltenham.
Academically outstanding without being aloof. A truly excellent girls’ boarding school!
The school’s Engineering, Enterprise & Technology Department is a real highlight. Here, the girls design and build everything from architectural models to electric cars.
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